Frank Schwindel has been waiting to get a real chance at the major leagues for a long time. An 18th round draft pick by the Royals in 2013, he finally got a brief look in the majors in 2019. However, he did not exactly impress in his short time in Kansas City, being sent back to Triple-A where he seemed destined to remain as a depth option.
That changed on Tuesday. The Oakland A’s made a series of roster moves, bringing Schwindel to the majors and optioning Vimael Machin back to Triple-A. Additionally, J.B. Wendelken was activated, while Cam Bedrosian was designated for assignment.
Frank Schwindel gets another chance
Schwindel had seemingly settled in as a Four-A player. He was clearly better than the opposition in Triple-A, posting a .301/.339/.531 batting line with 67 homers and 90 doubles in his 1360 plate appearances. However, as he did not have success in his 15 major league plate appearances, he did not appear as though he would get much further.
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His impressive showing in Las Vegas changed that for the Oakland A’s. Through 203 plate appearances, Schwindel had produced a .324/.369/.643 batting line with 16 homers and 11 doubles. Although Las Vegas is a launching pad, and he plays in a very hitting friendly league, those numbers still stand out.
There is an opportunity for Schwindel in Oakland. Although he is not going to dislodge Matt Olson from first base, he could get some chances as their designated hitter or as a power bat off the bench. He does have some slight experience in the corner outfield positions as well, with a total of three minor league games at those spots.
But he is not in the majors for his glove. Schwindel has the type of pop that the A’s could use in their lineup, even if he does not have a set place. However, if his production from Triple-A carries over to the majors, the A’s will find a place for him.
Frank Schwindel is back in the majors, getting another opportunity with the Oakland A’s. His production makes him an interesting addition.